noun / verb
padlock
PAD-lahk/ˈpædlɑːk/
A portable lock with a U-shaped shackle, or to secure something with one.
The brass padlock has a U-shaped shackle and a matching key.
Etymology
The historical compound already named a removable lock, with lock referring to a fastening. Its first element is obscure, though some sources suggest that it originally meant a lock for a pannier.
In context
he'd go back with a crowbar jimmy the door stick a different padlock on it
More examples
- She padlocks the gate every evening.
- The padlock's curved shackle fits through both metal loops.
- We padlocked the toolbox before leaving the job site.
Forms
padlock · padlocks · padlocked · padlocking
Similar words
- lock
- A broader term that also includes permanently installed locks.